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### **Big Apple Fritters Recipe**
**These Big Apple Fritters are crispy on the outside, soft and sweet on the inside, and filled with chunks of juicy apples. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack!**
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### **Ingredients:**
#### For the Fritter Batter:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup milk (whole milk preferred for richness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and diced)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans (optional for added crunch)
#### For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
#### For Frying:
- Vegetable oil (for frying, enough to fill your pan 2-3 inches deep)
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### **Instructions:**
#### 1. **Prepare the Apple Fritter Batter:**
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Gradually combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, stirring gently to form a thick batter. Avoid over-mixing to ensure the fritters remain light.
- Fold in the diced apples and, if using, chopped nuts.
#### 2. **Heat the Oil:**
- Pour vegetable oil into a large, deep skillet or a Dutch oven, filling it 2-3 inches deep.
- Heat the oil over medium-high heat to around 350°F (175°C). You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small spoonful of batter into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is hot enough.
#### 3. **Fry the Apple Fritters:**
- Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, carefully drop spoonfuls of the apple fritter batter into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry the fritters for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to flip them halfway through.
- Remove the fritters from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
#### 4. **Coat the Fritters in Cinnamon Sugar:**
- In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon.
- While the fritters are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat them evenly.
#### 5. **Serve and Enjoy:**
- Serve the Big Apple Fritters warm for the best texture and flavor. Pair them with a cup of coffee, hot cider, or enjoy them on their own as a delightful snack.
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### **Tips for the Best Apple Fritters:**
- **Use firm apples:** Choose apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. They hold their shape when fried and add a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.
- **Don't overcrowd the pan:** Fry the fritters in batches to ensure they cook evenly and become crisp on the outside.
- **Adjust the batter consistency:** If your batter is too thick, add a little more milk to loosen it up. It should be thick enough to hold the apples but not too heavy.
- **Add spices to taste:** You can adjust the cinnamon and nutmeg according to your preference, or even add other spices like ginger or allspice for extra warmth.
- **Make ahead option:** You can prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just give it a stir before frying.
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### **Frequently Asked Questions:**
1. **Can I make these fritters without nuts?**
- Absolutely! The fritters are delicious with or without nuts. Feel free to leave them out if you prefer a nut-free version.
2. **Can I bake these apple fritters instead of frying?**
- For a healthier alternative, you can bake the fritters at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes. Brush them with butter before baking to get a golden crust.
3. **What type of apples are best for apple fritters?**
- Tart apples like Granny Smith are ideal for fritters because they contrast nicely with the sweetness of the batter. However, any firm apple will work!
4. **How do I store leftover fritters?**
- Store the fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to retain their crispiness.
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### **Why You’ll Love These Big Apple Fritters:**
- **Perfectly Crispy:** These fritters are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with tender chunks of apple in every bite.
- **Easy to Make:** This recipe is simple to follow, with ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.
- **Versatile:** Enjoy them for breakfast, dessert, or as a delicious snack any time of day.
- **Great for Sharing:** The recipe makes a large batch, making it perfect for gatherings or sharing with friends and family.
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### **Conclusion:**
These **Big Apple Fritters** are a fun, delicious treat that combines the flavors of warm, spiced apples and crispy dough. The cinnamon sugar coating takes them over the top, making them irresistible. Whether you're enjoying them with a morning coffee or serving them for dessert, these apple fritters are sure to be a hit!
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